It is important to think about ways to stay safe if you have been in an abusive situation or you are concerned that you might be. Here are some specific things to consider:

If you are ever in immediate danger, call 911.

Make a list of phone numbers, including 911, crisis lines, and supportive people you can call when you are upset.

Think about what trusted person you can talk to about your safety. This may be a family member, friend, teacher, coach, school resource officer, police officer or guidance counselor.

Try not to be alone with the abuser. Let your friends at school or work know what is happening and have them walk places with you and spend time during lunch with you.

If you are alone with the abuser, try to stay out of rooms with no exits or with a higher possibility of injury, such as a kitchen or bathroom.

Go to a doctor or hospital if the abuser hurts you.

Keep money with you for a phone and taxi so that you can leave anyplace where you feel unsafe.

Create a safety plan.

Get rid of or change the number to any beepers, pagers or cell phones the abuser knows. Remember that "corded" phones are more private than cell phones or cordless phones.

Think about what is and is not respectful to you and know your legal rights.

Change your routine. Don't always go to and from school or work the same way, or arrive at the same time.

Have a code word that signals to friends or family that you need help.

Trust your instincts! If you feel you are in danger, get help immediately.

Ask yourself: where could you go quickly to get away from an abusive person?